March 05, 2010

Top ways to recession-proof your job

Be the best at what you do. While this is good advice at any time, it’s particularly relevant when times are tough. Have you ever seen the “top salesperson” let go before an underachiever?

Invest in yourself. Spending money to improve your skills or become better at your job is a wise investment that will never decrease its value.

Generate revenues or cut costs. Constantly find way to help your company save money and make more of it.

Be visible. If times are tight, it may not be the best time to take a vacation or request extended time off. Tough times are the times to stand out and be known.

Cultivate a great working relationship with your boss. This is just good business, and it doesn’t mean having to kiss ass. If it does, it’s time for a new job anyway!

Toot your own horn. This is the time to “add value” to your job or position while at the same time, making sure it is noticed (Without being obnoxious that is)

Improve yourself. Now is the time to be better at what you do, than you were yesterday. It’s simply not good enough to just be good.

No whining. Attitude can be everything. If a company needs to “scale back” the team, those that go last are the ones with a great / positive attitude and everyone enjoys being around.

Never stop networking. If the unfortunate day should come that you are let go, with ample connections, the odds of finding a new position quickly are greatly enhanced.Update your resume. This is a practice that should remain constant. As they say in the Boy Scouts, “Be Prepared.”

Set up an emergency fund. One should have 6 months salary saved to get them through a tough spot should it occur.

Develop a second career interest. Should your position be lost, have a fall back plan that may end up growing into something you love even more!